Essential Greece and Istanbul

Essential Greece and Istanbul

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8 Days From

$1469

$1399

Essential Greece and Istanbul

8 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting: Athens, Delphi, Meteora

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1469 $1399 Travel Club discount: -$70

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Essential Greece and Istanbul" tour, where you'll explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Greece and Turkey. Begin your adventure in Athens, marveling at the iconic Acropolis and the Parthenon, before delving into the ancient sanctuary of Delphi. Experience the awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop the Meteora cliffs and enjoy a special dinner in Kalambaka. Transition to the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you'll visit the majestic Blue Mosque, the opulent Topkapi Palace, and the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty, ensuring a memorable experience.

Highlights

  • Explore Athens and enjoy the magnificent views of the world-famous Acropolis

  • Discover the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena in Athens

  • Visit Delphi and see the ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the God Apollo

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views as you drive from Delphi to Kalambaka and Meteora

  • See the beautiful monasteries situated on the pillars of the mountains in Meteora

  • Take a trip to Istanbul to visit the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Athens Arrival

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival at the international airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore the hotels and attractions in the area.




Overnight in Athens

Day 2: Athens City Tour (B/-/-)

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a delicious breakfast, leave the hotel for a half-day city tour of Athens. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium — the unique marble stadium built on the site of a simple racecourse by the Athenian Statesman Lykourgos. The first Olympic Games of modern times were held here in 1896. Continue your journey and pass by the Prime Minister's Residence (the ex-Royal Palace) which you can find guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniforms. Discover the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch (constructed in 131 AD by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as part of a wall to separate the old and new cities of Athens), the Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the Constitution Square. Explore the Athens Acropolis, situated on top of a hill, which boasts remains of numerous ancient buildings of architectural and historical significance. Discover the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and finally \"the harmony between material and spirit\" — the monument that \"puts order in the mind\" — the Parthenon. Visit the new Acropolis Museum where you will admire the wonders of the classical era. Return to your hotel and relax.




Overnight in Athens

Day 3: Athens — Delphi — Kalambaka (B/-/D)

Location: Delphi

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning you will drive to Delphi, situated between the two towering rocks of Mount Parnassus, known as the Phaidriades (Shining) Rocks. This magnificent city is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, famous for the Ancient Oracle. The city was also seen as the center of the Earth and Oracle for ancient Greeks and was a sacred place where people had the power to make accurate predictions for the future. Later in the day, you will travel to Kalambaka. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you pass by charming villages and Greek towns. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and unwind as you get ready for your onward journey to Meteora in the morning.




Overnight in Kalambaka

Day 4: Kalambaka — Meteora — Athens (B/-/-)

Location: Meteora

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, drive through the breathtaking landscapes en route to Meteora. This city is defined by a series of large pillars of rocks with beautiful rock formations. What makes Meteora particularly special is that on these cliffs of many rocks, you can see monasteries constructed. It was once said that there were 24 monasteries — but now the number has decreased and only 6 continue to be active. You may purchase traditional items such as hand-painted religious icons, embroidered fabrics, and leather sandals. Return to Athens for overnight stay..




Overnight in Athens

Day 5: Athens (B/-/-)

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a delicious breakfast, you will spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may go out to explore the city on your own, taste traditional Greek dishes, or shop for fascinating mementos.




Overnight in Athens

Day 6: Athens – Istanbul (Flight) (B/-/-)

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning you will depart for Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, our representative will greet and assist you with your transfer to the hotel.




Overnight in Istanbul

Day 7: Istanbul City Tour (B/-/-)

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will head on a tour to explore Istanbul. Visit the Topkapi Palace, home to generations of sultans and their wives who were closeted in the famous harem. Marvel over the Blue Mosque, known as the historical mosque of Istanbul. This monument is well-known due to its blue tiles surrounding the walls and is also famous for its six minarets. Continue to visit Hagia Sofia — an architectural marvel. Finally, visit the Spice Market where you will discover colorful views. There you may purchase and taste traditional foods of Turkish cuisine. After the tour, you will transfer back to the hotel with dinner. Pack your bags full of unforgettable memories!




Overnight in Istanbul

Day 8: Istanbul (B/-/-)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, complete your check-out formalities and say goodbye to Istanbul — the City of Saga. You will be dropped off at the airport and board your flight back home.

What's Included

  • 07 nights accommodation on a Twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable accommodation for 7 nights on a twin-sharing basis at the listed hotels or similar.

  • Daily buffet breakfast

    Start your day with a delicious daily buffet breakfast.

  • 01 Special Dinner in Kalambaka

    Savor a special dinner in Kalambaka.

  • Arrival and departure airport transfers

    Convenient airport transfers upon arrival and departure.

  • All Transportation in a deluxe AC vehicle

    Travel comfortably in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.

  • All Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Experience all the sightseeing activities as per the itinerary.

  • Services of English-speaking local Guides during sightseeing

    Benefit from the services of English-speaking local guides during sightseeing.

  • Entrance fees as per the itinerary

    All entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Regional Flights Athens - Istanbul

    Enjoy regional flights from Athens to Istanbul.

  • All local and applicable taxes

    All local and applicable taxes are included.

What's Not Included

  • Items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Expenses of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours are not included in the package.

  • Visa fees, if applicable

    Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.

  • Arrival and departure transfers for the land-only option

    Arrival and departure transfers are not included for the land-only option.

  • City Taxes in Greece – EUR 5 per room/per night

    City taxes in Greece, EUR 5 per room per night, are collected by hotels directly at reception on arrival.

  • Items not mentioned as included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, including arrival and departure airport transfers and regional flights from Athens to Istanbul.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, with daily buffet breakfast and a special dinner in Kalambaka.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Daily buffet breakfast is included, along with one special dinner in Kalambaka.

  • Is transportation provided during the tour?

    Yes, all transportation is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers are included.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included?

    Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included.

  • Will there be a guide during the sightseeing tours?

    Yes, the services of English-speaking local guides during sightseeing are included.

  • Are flights between Athens and Istanbul included?

    Yes, regional flights from Athens to Istanbul are included.

  • What can I expect to see in Delphi?

    In Delphi, you will see the ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the God Apollo, which was considered the center of the Earth and Oracle for ancient Greeks.

  • What makes Meteora special?

    Meteora is known for its large pillars of rocks with beautiful rock formations and monasteries constructed on these cliffs. Originally, there were 24 monasteries, but now only 6 remain active.

  • What are the main attractions in Istanbul included in the tour?

    In Istanbul, you will visit the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Spice Market.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?

    Yes, items of personal nature, tips, gratuities, optional tours, visa fees (if applicable), arrival and departure transfers for the land-only option, and city taxes in Greece (EUR 5 per room per night) are not included.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

Carole Pollack (Google Reviewer)  

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour...

11-Jul-2023

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour taken after Egypt opened back up to tourists, particularly Americans. Went in November and weather was beautiful. Decent hotels and overnight Nile cruise. You will see a lot on this tour and be aware there are some early wake ups. Lots of walking but doable if you're in decent shape. Overall a fun tour with all the sites you have only seen in books!

Erik Folke (Google Reviewer)  

Indus has some very good...

24-May-2024

Indus has some very good tour itineraries at very competitive prices. I called with several specific questions about land only vs. air included, and they were immediately responsive, and within hours had the website description updated to assist anyone else who might have the same questions. I called again with specific questions about insurance, and the first person to answer the phone was completely knowledgeable based on past experience and gave me good advice. Four stars vs. five only because I just made the booking yesterday, and withhold one pending how this whole trip turns out two months from now.

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Travel Club discount: -$70

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Travel Club discount: -$80

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.